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| TWIZY, Renault Samsung's subminiature EV Courtesy of Renault Samsung |
By Kim Hyun-bin
The electric vehicle (EV) market has been showing rapid growth as of late, with global car manufacturers releasing scores of attractive designs. The EV craze could be attributed to the success of Tesla's Model 3, but there are hidden players in the industry that have contributed to the boom.
Renault TWIZY has become an eye-catcher on the road with its compact design sparking curiosity as well as intriguing many drivers. It has become a true star in the local EV market and a symbol for diversification in the ever-changing industry.
The TWIZY with its subminiature form could fit through narrow alleys, and up to three of the models can share a single parking space, which gives an advantage downtown especially for delivery drivers, surveillance and facility management.
The vehicle needs only three and a half hours to fully charge using regular household 220V electricity. The cost to fully charge the EV comes out to around 600 won making it very economical. The TWIZY can travel up to 80 kilometers on just a single charge.
The TWIZY comes with an airbag, seatbelt and four-wheel disk brakes securing the safety of the driver.
There are two models: a two-seater and a one-seater with cargo. The cargo model can load 180 liters or 7 kilograms, which makes it suitable for delivery drivers.
There are ongoing promotions for the TWIZY. Any customers paying in cash can receive a 200,000 won discount and those paying with a credit card have the option of a maximum 60-month payment plan with a 1.9 percent interest rate. The promotions are only available in August.
Last week, Renault Samsung Motors started to take orders for the fully electric car the Renault Zoe, with delivery to be made in September.
The pure electric subcompacts are imported from France where they are assembled at the French carmaker's Flins plant outside of Paris.
The Renault ZOE was first introduced in the European market in 2012 and since then around 126,000 vehicles have been sold establishing the standard of easy electric life. The company hopes for the model to expand EV demand in the local market.
The Renault ZOE comes with a price tag of 39.95 million to 44.95 million won ($33,600-$37,800) but will be available for 27.59 million won to 32.59 million won with state subsidies, the company said.
"Before the launch of the Renault Samsung Motors ZOE, the SM3 Z.E. has opened the way to the local EV market," an official from Renault Samsung said. "We will continue to provide diverse choices for EV owners."
